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World-class skiing, a historic Tyrolean town and a winter calendar that stretches well beyond the slopes: Kitzbühel has built its reputation on more than one famous race.
There are ski resorts, and then there is Kitzbühel. This historic Austrian town has more than 750 years of history, 233 km of pistes and one of the most recognisable names in alpine skiing: the Hahnenkamm. But while the legendary Streif puts Kitzbühel firmly on the winter sports map, there is considerably more to this place than one notorious downhill course.
Part of the appeal lies in the combination. The mountains are close to town, the main Hahnenkamm cable car is within walking distance of the centre. A day on the slopes can easily be followed by an evening exploring historic streets, browsing boutiques or settling into one of the town’s cafés and restaurants. Kitzbühel ski resort brings skiing, traditional Alpine character and a lively social scene together without requiring visitors to choose between them.
233 km of skiing, right on the doorstep
This world-class ski area dates back to 1893, when Franz Reisch made his historic first ski descent from the Kitzbüheler Horn. KitzSki boasts 58 cable cars and lifts operating between 800 and 2,000 m above sea level. With 233 km of pistes, it offers plenty of scope for long days on the mountain, whether the plan is to cruise, cover as much ground as possible or seek out more challenging descents.
KitzSki has been named Austria’s Best Ski Resort eleven times, most recently in 2025. From the spectacular 3S cable car, which offers breathtaking views of the Hohe Tauern mountains, to the free beginner lifts in the valley, there’s something for everyone.
Skiing in Kitzbühel is spread across several areas, including the Hahnenkamm, Jochberg and Pass Thurn, linked by lifts and pistes. The Kitzbüheler Horn sits separately on the eastern side of town.
That variety matters. The Hahnenkamm is home to the famous Streif and has a mix of gentle slopes and demanding black runs, making it far more than a racecourse for elite athletes. Further afield, Jochberg offers varied terrain, while Pass Thurn has a selection of red runs and a snow park. The Kitzbüheler Horn, meanwhile, caters to a range of abilities, with beginner areas and wider red runs.
There is also a practical advantage to the layout. The Hahnenkamm cable car is less than a ten-minute walk from the town centre. This makes it easy to move between mountain and town without building the day around a lengthy transfer. For a resort with this much skiing, that closeness is a real part of the experience.
And then there is the Streif. Even outside race week, the chance to ski in an area associated with one of the sport’s most famous downhill courses gives Kitzbühel a distinctive identity. The course’s key sections can be viewed from the Familien-Streif run, bringing the mountain’s racing heritage into an ordinary day on skis.
Kitzbühel is also among the world-class resorts featured on the Ikon Pass.
A town with a life beyond skiing
Kitzbühel’s appeal goes far beyond the slopes. At the heart of the resort lies a charming historic centre, dating back to 1271. Cobbled streets, colourful traditional façades and more than 750 years of history create a distinctly Tyrolean atmosphere.
Wander through the picturesque streets of Vorderstadt and Hinterstadt or browse independent boutiques and exclusive shops.
Settle into a cosy café, enjoy authentic Tyrolean cuisine or soak up the atmosphere at one of the town’s lively bars and après-ski venues. With more than 60 mountain huts and restaurants, you can enjoy everything from a relaxed mountain lunch to a memorable evening meal.
Whether you’re travelling with keen skiers, enthusiastic shoppers or those who prefer to explore at a gentler pace, Kitzbühel offers something for everyone. It is as much a destination for lifestyle, food and culture as it is for world-class skiing.
Winter hiking and guided tours
Discover Kitzbühel’s winter wonderland on scenic trails through snow-covered valleys, around Schwarzsee and across the panoramic routes of the Hahnenkamm and Kitzbüheler Horn. Join local experts for guided winter or snowshoe hikes, with selected tours free with the KitzCard guest card. Perfect for non-skiers, these adventures offer a wonderful way to enjoy the mountains at a gentler pace. Find out more about winter hiking.
Curling and ice stock sport
Try something a little different with curling and ice stock sport. These fun, sociable alpine traditions combine skill and friendly competition. Kitzbühel is home to Austria’s only dedicated indoor curling rink, at Sportpark Kitzbühel, making it a unique winter experience away from the slopes.
Cross-country skiing and tobogganing
Take in stunning alpine scenery on the panoramic cross-country trail at Pass Thurn. Alternatively, pick up the pace on the thrilling toboggan runs at Gaisberg, Kelchalm and Trattenbachalm. For extra excitement, head to Gaisberg for floodlit evening tobogganing from Tuesday to Saturday.
For a slower pace, wellness experiences offer the chance to relax and recharge.
Events and highlights for winter 2026/27
Kitzbühel’s winter calendar is packed with festive traditions, world-class sport and vibrant entertainment. The season begins with the Kitzbüheler Advent (18 November – 27 December 2026), when the historic town centre comes alive with the magic of the Christmas market. The celebrations continue into the New Year, with street performers and live music from 30 December 2026 to 1 January 2027, creating a lively atmosphere well beyond Christmas itself.
December also brings Sound | Escape (11–12 December 2026), featuring MAJA and DJ HUGEL, adding an exciting electronic music vibe to the winter season. In January, the action shifts to the snow, with the Kitzbühel Polo Cup (8–10 January 2027) followed by the Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup (14–17 January 2027), where top international players compete against a spectacular alpine backdrop.
The highlight for many is the 87th Hahnenkamm Races (18–24 January 2027), an iconic fixture in Kitzbühel’s sporting calendar. All eyes turn to the legendary Streif downhill course as the world’s best skiers tackle one of the most challenging runs in the sport. Visitors can watch downhill training sessions free of charge.
Checkout the full event lineup here.
Getting to Kitzbühel and getting around
Kitzbühel’s central location in the Alps makes it easy to reach. There are three international airports within convenient driving distance: Salzburg (approximately 1 hour), Innsbruck (1.5 hours) and Munich (around 2 hours).
Once you arrive, getting around is just as easy. With the historic town centre close to the main ski lifts, visitors can enjoy a car-free winter holiday, without the expense or hassle of hiring a car. It’s a convenient, cost-effective and more sustainable way to explore Kitzbühel.
Accommodation in Kitzbühel caters to a wide range of tastes and budgets, from stylish hotels to cosy alpine apartments. Whether you’re planning a luxury escape, a family break or a relaxed winter getaway, you’ll find a base to suit your style and make the most of your time in the mountains. Book your accommodation.
More than a legendary name
Kitzbühel’s reputation is built on its sporting history, and the Hahnenkamm remains central to its identity. Yet the town’s appeal is not confined to a week of racing or a famous stretch of piste.
Its real appeal lies in the extensive skiing and historic centre, complemented by a wealth of activities beyond the slopes. The winter events programme adds another dimension, spanning everything from traditional festivities to electronic music.
The legendary status may be what first puts Kitzbühel on the map. What makes it worth spending time in is everything that surrounds it.
Book your winter holiday in Kitzbuhel
